Human trafficking is a reality in Ekurhuleni.
This is according to the metro’s manager for health and social development, Pauline Ngakane, who spoke to the media in Boksburg on the prevalence of human trafficking and what has been done to curb it.
“Human trafficking is evident in Ekurhuleni without shame,” said Ngakane.
Themba Gadebe, the metro’s spokesperson, said human trafficking is also a national issue and it should be tackled by opening dialogue.
Gadebe said there is no legislation in place to deal with human trafficking directly.
Ngakane emphasised it is everyone’s responsibility to report any suspicious activity.
“Women and children are vulnerable and are easy targets, so the community needs to keep their eyes and ears open.”
According to Ngakane, women and children are drawn into trafficking through deception and the promise of a better life.
“Children are forced into situations they want no part of, even into marriages, which all forms part of trafficking. At the end of the day, trafficking is human slavery.”
She said trafficking also takes place through illegal adoptions that are not properly screened.
“Be wary of social media platforms, where a lot of recruitment and ‘hunting’ for traffic victims activity takes place. Be very careful what photos you post of your family, children and yourself. Traffickers can get all the information they need from your social media profiles.
“Especially the youth post a lot of things on social media that attract attention from people they don’t even know, who hold dangerous motives. Interaction on social media can easily expose you to smugglers.
“The reality is that men, women and children can easily be abducted, and there are many traps that vulnerable individuals fall into. Be alert of the children around you, be concerned and take an interest,” said Ngakane.
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